If you're considering a career in mental health support, choosing the right counselling qualification is an essential first step. Two of the most popular pathways in Australia are a Diploma in Counselling and a Degree in Counselling. While both can lead to rewarding roles, they differ significantly in structure, duration, and career opportunities.
In this guide, we'll compare the diploma vs degree counselling options in terms of study format, accreditation, job readiness, and more—so you can make an informed decision that fits your goals.
Why Your Qualification Choice Matters
In Australia, the counselling and psychotherapy industry values professionals from both vocational and academic pathways. However, the level of qualification you choose directly influences the type of clients you can work with, your eligibility for registration with professional bodies like ACA or PACFA, and your long-term career progression.
Understanding the key differences between vocational training (such as a diploma) and academic programs (like a bachelor's or master's degree) is essential. Choosing between a short-term course or a longer, more in-depth qualification can help you make a smart investment of your time, money, and career goals—especially if you're aiming for clinical roles or private practice in the future.
Diploma vs Degree in Counselling: At a Glance
When choosing between a Diploma and a Degree in Counselling, it's important to understand how each pathway aligns with your goals. A Diploma in Counselling typically takes 12 to 18 months, is vocational in nature, and is often delivered online or in a flexible format. It leads to Level 1 registration with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and prepares graduates for support or entry-level counselling roles.It’s a great option for those seeking a quicker entry into the mental health field, with the potential to use RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) toward a future degree.
In contrast, a Degree in Counselling—whether a Bachelor's (3 years) or Master’s (1–2 years)—is an academic qualification offering deeper theoretical training and professional development. Degrees are typically delivered on-campus or in blended formats and may qualify graduates for registration with both ACA and PACFA, depending on the course. A degree provides access to full counselling roles, opportunities for specialisation, and pathways to postgraduate study or clinical practice.
Diploma of Counselling: Practical, Fast, and Accessible
The Diploma of Counselling is a vocational qualification ideal for individuals looking to enter the mental health field quickly. It focuses on practical counselling skills, including client communication, active listening, and basic therapeutic support techniques.
Key Benefits of a Diploma in Counselling
- Can be completed in 12–18 months, full-time or part-time
- More affordable and flexible than a university degree
- Prepares you for entry-level roles in youth services, disability support, community work, and case management
- May qualify graduates for Level 1 membership with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA)
Important Considerations
- No academic or research components
- Not eligible for registration with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA)
- Limited access to higher-level or clinical positions
Explore counselling courses in Australia to see available diploma pathways.
Degree in Counselling: Comprehensive and Future-Ready
A Degree in Counselling is an in-depth academic program designed to prepare students for advanced roles within the counselling profession. This course typically involves supervised clinical placements, strong theoretical foundations, and opportunities to specialise through postgraduate study.
Benefits of a Degree in Counselling
- Accredited by both the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA)
- Combines practical counselling skills with a deep understanding of psychological theory
- Ideal for those pursuing long-term careers in schools, private practice, clinics, or community services
- Provides pathways to Master's programs and specialised fields
- Some degrees offer articulation into psychology-related study options
Considerations
- Usually requires three years of full-time study, with part-time options available
- Higher tuition costs compared to diploma programs
- Demands a greater academic commitment
Learn more about why studying psychotherapy in Australia can be a strategic career choice.
Which Path Is Right for You?
Choose a Diploma if:
- You want to enter the mental health field quickly
- You prefer hands-on, practical training
- You're exploring counselling as a potential career
- You're not ready for a long academic commitment
Choose a Degree if:
- You're committed to becoming a professional counsellor
- You want to register with PACFA or work in private practice
- You plan to pursue postgraduate studies such as a Master of Counselling
- You seek a deeper understanding of psychology and mental health theory
This choice will shape your learning journey and career opportunities, so consider your goals carefully before deciding.
Career Outcomes: What Can You Do After Graduation?
Choosing between a diploma and a degree influences your career options, professional registration, and potential for advancement in the mental health field.
| Career Path | Diploma | Degree |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible Roles | Support worker, peer mentor, youth counsellor | Registered counsellor, private practitioner, school counsellor |
| Registration | ACA Level 1 | ACA Level 2, PACFA provisional/full |
| Estimated Earnings | $50,000–80,000 per year (varies by role and location) | $60,000–100,000 per year (varies by role and location) |
| Career Progression | May require further study for clinical or specialised roles | Prepared for specialisation and postgraduate study opportunities |
Scholarships & Accessibility
Diploma in Counselling
The Diploma in Counselling is designed with flexibility in mind, making it accessible for students with varying schedules and commitments. Many institutions offer online learning, blended delivery, or evening/weekend classes, allowing you to balance study with work or family responsibilities.
If you choose to continue your education, you may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), which can shorten the duration and reduce the cost of completing a counselling degree.
Degree in Counselling
A Degree in Counselling offers broader access to international scholarships, which can significantly lower tuition costs for eligible students. These scholarships may be merit-based, need-based, or targeted toward students from specific regions.
Graduates are also eligible for the Australian Post-Study Work Visa (subclass 485), allowing them to remain in Australia for a period to gain professional experience. The program typically includes clinical placements with qualified supervision, giving students the opportunity to apply theory in real-world settings such as schools, community centres, and private practice.
Visit our admissions page to check entry requirements and scholarship options.
Making Your Decision
Deciding between a Diploma and a Degree in Counselling comes down to your career goals, desired level of study, and the speed at which you want to enter the profession.
A Diploma in Counselling is ideal if you want a faster, more flexible entry into the mental health sector. It equips you with practical skills to support clients in community services, support roles, or entry-level counselling positions.
A Degree in Counselling, on the other hand, provides a more in-depth academic foundation, preparing you for advanced clinical work and broader career opportunities.
Whether you take the vocational path through a diploma or the academic route through a degree, start by researching and comparing accredited programs across Australia. The right qualification will not only shape your knowledge and skills but also your eligibility for professional recognition, career advancement, and future studies.
Both the Diploma and Degree in Counselling can open meaningful and rewarding pathways in the mental health sector. The choice depends on your desired timeline, depth of study, and long-term career goals. A diploma offers a quicker entry with flexible learning, while a degree provides comprehensive academic and clinical preparation for professional registration and advanced roles.
Contact Us to Start Your Counselling Journey Today
Take the first step toward your counselling career—explore accredited programs, understand your eligibility for scholarships and admissions, and choose the study option that aligns with your vision for the future.
📞 Contact us for personalised advice or to book a free consultation.